SEPTIC TANK – Do’s & Don’ts DO'S Don'ts

SEPTIC TANK ? Do's & Don'ts

DO'S

Don'ts

DO learn the location of your septic tank and drain field. Keep a sketch of it handy with your maintenance record for service visits.

DO have your septic tank inspected annually. Especially check for the sludge and scum levels.

Don't go down into a septic tank. Toxic gases are produced by the natural treatment processes in septic tanks and can kill in minutes. Extreme care should be taken when inspecting a septic tank, even when just looking in.

Don't allow anyone to drive or park over any part of the system.

DO inspect the drain field for odors and wet spots which are indicators of improper drainage, a clogged system or excessive water use. The presence of damp or soggy areas or odors may indicate a leak in the system.

DO have your septic tank pumped out regularly by a licensed contractor.

DO keep your septic tank cover accessible for inspections and pumpings. Install risers if necessary.

DO call a professional whenever you experience problems with your system, or if there are any signs of system failure.

DO keep a detailed record of repairs, pumpings, inspections, permits issued, and other maintenance activities.

DO conserve water to avoid overloading the system. Be sure to repair any leaky faucets or toilets.

Don't plant anything over or near the drain field except grass. Roots from nearby trees or shrubs may clog and damage the drain lines.

Don't dig in your drain field or build anything over it, and don't cover the drain field with a hard surface such as concrete or asphalt. The area over the drain field should only have a grass cover. The grass will not only prevent erosion, but will help remove excess water.

Don't make or allow repairs to your septic system without obtaining the required health department permit. Use professional licensed septic contractors when needed.

Don't use septic tank additives. These products usually do not help and some may even be harmful to your system.

Don't use your toilet as a trash can or poison your septic system and the groundwater by pouring harmful chemicals and cleansers down the drain. Harsh chemicals can kill the beneficial bacteria that treat your wastewater.

DO divert other sources of water, like roof drains, house footing drains and sump pumps, away from the septic system. Excessive water keeps the soil in the drain field from naturally cleansing the wastewater.

Don't use a garbage disposal without checking with your local regulatory agency to make sure that your septic system can accommodate this additional waste.

Don't allow backwash from home water softeners to enter our septic system.

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